<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Great Barrier Reef Archives - TEAN</title> <atom:link href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/tag/great-barrier-reef/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>http://teanabroad.org/blog/tag/great-barrier-reef/</link> <description>The Education Abroad Network</description> <lastBuildDate>Sat, 24 Mar 2018 08:14:05 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <image> <url>https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/cropped-TEAN_favicon1-32x32.png</url> <title>Great Barrier Reef Archives - TEAN</title> <link>http://teanabroad.org/blog/tag/great-barrier-reef/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Top Dive Locations: Fiji, New Zealand and Australia</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN Student]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2015 15:00:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fiji]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Zealand]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cairns]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=3302</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you’ve done any research on the country of New Zealand then you know that … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/">Top Dive Locations: Fiji, New Zealand and Australia</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_3311" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3311" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Maya_Herold_3.jpg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-3311" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Maya_Herold_3.jpg" alt="Photo by Maya Herold, Rollins College, University of Sydney" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Maya_Herold_3.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Maya_Herold_3-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3311" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by Maya Herold, Rollins College, University of Sydney</figcaption></figure> <p>If you’ve done any research on the country of New Zealand then you know that multiple sources have described it as the adventure capital of the world. Bungee jumping, canyoning, and skydiving are just some of the few activities that this country has to offer. However, what about scuba diving?</p> <p><span id="more-3302"></span></p> <p>Asia-Pacific has some great locations to dive whether you chose to do a pre-semester excursion with TEAN, or just travel on your own, these are definitely some sites you need to hit. The best part is that if you go through TEAN to Fiji then they will help organize the scuba diving trip for you. If you’re planning on scuba diving then consider this list of some of the best places to go.</p> <h2>Fiji</h2> <p>With the help of <em><a href="http://www.dive-the-world.com/" target="_blank">Dive The World</a> </em>here is a list of some of the top dive sites in Fiji.</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.paradisecoveresortfiji.com/dive/padi-dive-center.htm" target="_blank">Paradise Cove</a>, Yasawa Islands</li> <li><a href="http://www.dive-the-world.com/diving-sites-fiji-taveuni.php" target="_blank">Somosomo Strait</a>, Taveuni Island</li> <li><a href="http://www.dive-the-world.com/diving-sites-fiji-kadavu.php" target="_blank">Great Astrolabe Reef</a>, Kadavu</li> <li><a href="http://www.dive-the-world.com/diving-sites-fiji-beqa-lagoon.php" target="_blank">Beqa Lagoon</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.sonaisali.com/activities1/diving" target="_blank">Sonaisali Island</a></li> </ul> <figure id="attachment_3306" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3306" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-1.png"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-3306" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-1.png" alt="A reef shark I saw while diving at Paradise Cove, the Yasawa Islands, Fiji" width="620" height="396" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-1.png 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-1-300x192.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3306" class="wp-caption-text">A reef shark I saw while diving at Paradise Cove, the Yasawa Islands, Fiji</figcaption></figure> <h2>New Zealand</h2> <p>A list provided by the <a href="http://www.padi.com/scuba/scuba-diving-trips/scuba-diving-resort-vacations/newzealand/" target="_blank">PADI</a>, and some consultation with my friends here are top dive sites in New Zealand.</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://diving.co.nz/poor-knights-islands" target="_blank">Poor Knights Islands</a>, near Whangarei, North Island</li> <li><a href="http://www.divesitedirectory.co.uk/dive_site_new_zealand_wreck_rainbow_warrior.html" target="_blank">Rainbow Warrior</a>, a ship wreck in the Auckland Harbour, North Island</li> <li><a href="http://www.godive.co.nz/blog/riwaka-caves/" target="_blank">Riwaka Caverns</a>, near Nelson, South Island</li> <li><a href="http://www.whakatane.com/activities/white-island" target="_blank">White Island</a>, off the coast of Whakatane, North Island</li> <li><a href="http://www.justgottadive.com/dive_resources/dive_sites/hmnzs-wellington-f69#.VRwRuzvF-Vg" target="_blank">HMNZS Wellington</a>, North Island</li> </ul> <figure id="attachment_3307" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3307" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-2.png"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-3307" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-2.png" alt="Photo taken by my friend Christian, diving at Owhiro Bay, New Zealand" width="620" height="459" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-2.png 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Picture-2-300x222.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3307" class="wp-caption-text">Photo taken by my friend Christian, diving at Owhiro Bay, New Zealand</figcaption></figure> <h2>Australia</h2> <p>Tips provided by <em><a href="http://www.dive-the-world.com/" target="_blank">Dive The World</a> on t</em>he top dive sites in Australia.</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.padi.com/scuba-diving/scuba-diving-travel/vacation-spotlights/great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank">Great Barrier Reef</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.yongaladive.com.au/2010/10/11/home/" target="_blank">The Yongala shipwreck</a>, Queensland</li> <li><a href="http://www.rumrunnercairns.com.au/diving-expeditions.html" target="_blank">Holmes Reef, Coral Sea</a></li> <li><a href="http://1planet.mobi/articles/2013/07/26/top-ten-dive-sites-in-the-world-navy-pier-exmouth-australia/" target="_blank">Navy Pier</a>, Western Australia</li> <li><a href="http://www.diveadventures.com/pages/destinations/Christmas/" target="_blank">Christmas Island</a>, off the coast of Perth</li> </ul> <figure id="attachment_3309" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3309" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/picture-3.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-3309" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/picture-3.png" alt="Picture of my friend Guilia Sagramoso, studying in Auckland, moments before she dove at the Great Barrier Reef" width="620" height="344" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/picture-3.png 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/picture-3-300x166.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3309" class="wp-caption-text">Picture of my friend Guilia Sagramoso, studying in Auckland, moments before she dove at the Great Barrier Reef</figcaption></figure> <p><strong>Kirsty Cowie is a student at The Pennsylvania State University and a TEAN Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with TEAN in <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/wellington.html" target="_blank">Wellington, New Zealand</a>.</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/">Top Dive Locations: Fiji, New Zealand and Australia</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/top-dive-locations-fiji-new-zealand-and-australia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Top 7 Reasons to Sail the Whitsunday Islands</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN Alum]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:23:58 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=2548</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Thinking about travelling to the Whitsundays in Queensland, Australia? In my opinion, it should be … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/">Top 7 Reasons to Sail the Whitsunday Islands</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thinking about travelling to the Whitsundays in Queensland, Australia? In my opinion, it should be at the top of your list. One of the best ways to see the islands’ magnificent views, while keeping your budget in mind, is to sign up for an overnight sailing trip. Imagine island hopping, snorkeling the reefs, watching amazing sunrises and sunsets, while traveling and sleeping on a sailboat with friends. Here are seven great reasons to set sail on an adventure of a lifetime to see the Whitsunday Islands.</p> <figure id="attachment_10847" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-10847" style="width: 1280px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-10847" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Daisy_Alexander_11-1280x600.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="600" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Daisy_Alexander_11-1280x600.jpg 1280w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Daisy_Alexander_11-300x141.jpg 300w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Daisy_Alexander_11-768x360.jpg 768w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Daisy_Alexander_11-310x145.jpg 310w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-10847" class="wp-caption-text">View of Whitsundays by Daisy Alexander, University of Kentucky who studied abroad in Australia</figcaption></figure> <h4>1. Amazing Views of the Night Sky</h4> <p>When you are out in the middle of the ocean you have an awesome opportunity to see the Milky Way across the night sky. I had never seen it like this before. The captain will shut the boat down, therefore, eliminating all light pollution for the perfect view. Without buildings and trees to stand in the way of your view, it feels as if the universe is at your fingertips, and if you’re lucky you might even see a few shooting stars. With the help of the captain and some staff, you will be able to spot all kinds of constellations and even learn the history behind them.</p> <h4>2. Go Island hopping</h4> <p>Being on a sailboat gives you the advantage of being mobile and also being able to island hop. You can spend several hours in the water or soak up the sun while taking in the vast landscape. Then, when lunch time hits, you are able to go to another spot on the reef and keep exploring. Going to so many spots on the Great Barrier Reef allows you to see many different locations with even more species of plants and animals. It also allows you to put into perspective how massive the reef really is. By the end of this trip, even though you might feel like a mermaid, you must take advantage of the once in a lifetime opportunity to swim in the water and experience island hopping.</p> <figure id="attachment_2571" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2571" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/teegan_innis_3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2571 size-full" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/teegan_innis_3.jpg" alt="Teegan Innis, University of Rhode Island, James Cook University" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/teegan_innis_3.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/teegan_innis_3-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2571" class="wp-caption-text">Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island photo by Teegan Innis, University of Rhode Island who studied abroad in Australia</figcaption></figure> <h4>3. Travel Off the Beaten Path</h4> <p>Most people choose the option to stay in a hostel and take day trips out to the reef, but this can become expensive. Taking the live aboard sailboat gives you an authentic experience unlike the traditional way that most tourists see the Great Barrier Reef. You are getting an inside view unlike any other. Additionally, you are able to <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/taking-the-road-less-travelled-an-australian-adventure/" target="_blank">get off the beaten path</a> to see unique locations on the Great Barrier Reef that most people never get to see. So, while living on a sailboat may be off the beaten path, it is the sure way to experience the Whitsunday Islands while getting the benefit of meeting other people and cultures.</p> <h4>4. Storytelling Unplugged</h4> <p>One of my favorite parts about being on the live aboard sailboat is getting to exchange stories with other people. I talked to the captain several times, and got to hear his many stories about his time out on the water; from being rescued in a storm, to how he started his life on the reef. Talking to the staff and other passengers allows you to take a walk in another person’s shoes and experience their perspective on life. Storytelling and talking with others is a tremendous way to broaden your study-abroad experience. So get out there and mingle. Also, without modern day electronics, you are able to take the time to really talk to others and exchange stories and life experiences.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_0878.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2572" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_0878.jpg" alt="IMG_0878" width="620" height="827" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_0878.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_0878-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <h4>5. See New Wildlife</h4> <p>Spending the entire day on the Great Barrier Reef for multiple days allows you to see a vast array of plants and animals. While scuba diving, you can swim along a giant sea turtle and watch all of the fish swim with the current of the ocean. Imagine swimming next to huge fish that are every color of the rainbow! While snorkeling, you can see a vast array of fish swimming in and out of different coral reefs. It is truly a sight to see these fish pop in and out of the reefs; it is a whole new world underneath the ocean! Again, this is a must-have experience to see so many different types of plants and animals all interacting to survive among the Great Barrier Reef.</p> <h4>6. Make New Friends</h4> <p>One great aspect of choosing a live-aboard sailboat is that you will be sailing and spending time with people from all over the globe. On my trip I met people from France, Germany, China and of course some native Australians. It’s a great opportunity to meet people from vastly different backgrounds, experience other cultures, hear other languages, and create friendships. Since you are living together on the sailboat for a few days, you are able to see how all of the different lifestyles come together to create an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself into the culture and learn, learn, learn; that is what studying abroad and travelling is for, right?</p> <figure id="attachment_2574" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2574" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turtle.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2574 size-full" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turtle.jpg" alt="turtle" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turtle.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turtle-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2574" class="wp-caption-text">Some of the wildlife you might see on the reef. Photo by Heather Leyva, Auburn University who studied abroad on an Australia Summer Program.</figcaption></figure> <h4>7. Watch Beautiful Sunsets</h4> <p>While most of us have seen many sunsets in our lifetimes, nothing can compare to seeing the sunset every night while in the middle of the ocean. As stated earlier, there are no trees or buildings to block the setting and you have the ultimate view the sunset. It is amazing how the sunset can be different and everlasting while on a sailboat. The different colors are a sight to see; from oranges and yellows, to red and pinks, these sunsets offer a multitude of colors to make it an unforgettable one! Every night the travelers on our sailboat would gather at the front of the ship and watch the sky change colors. It was a sunset in which pictures cannot do it justice; you just have to experience it!</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_08511.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2555" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_08511.jpg" alt="IMG_0851" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_08511.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_08511-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>Exploring the Whitsunday Islands on a sailboat is an amazing opportunity. You get to spend the night under the stars, meet new people, and explore a new world underwater while hopping from island to island. This is one of the best ways to see the Great Barrier Reef because you get to go to so many different locations. Immerse yourself into the life of a sailor to get to see these indescribable reefs and all of the other advantages of taking on the sailboat life.</p> <p><strong>Jill <span style="color: #000000;">Transou</span> is a TEAN Alum and <a href="5%20Steps to Recover from your Semester Abroad" target="_blank">Global Ambassador</a> at Clemson University. She studied abroad with <a style="color: #1f2d61;" href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank">TEAN</a> at Griffith University on the <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/goldcoast.html" target="_blank">Gold Coast, Australia</a>. </strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/">Top 7 Reasons to Sail the Whitsunday Islands</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/7-reasons-to-sail-the-whitsunday-islands-australia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>10 Life Changing Moments Studying Abroad in Australia</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN Alum]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2014 19:14:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cairns]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Study Abroad Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Study Abroad Gold Coast]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=2339</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>My time in Australia made me feel as if I was on top of the … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/">10 Life Changing Moments Studying Abroad in Australia</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Ocean.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2340" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Ocean.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Ocean" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Ocean.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Ocean-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>My time in Australia made me feel as if I was on top of the world. I have included a list of the top ten moments that I experienced while <a href="http://teanabroad.org/programs/australia/">studying abroad in Australia</a>. They really did change my life and have been etched into my memory forever.</p> <p><span id="more-2339"></span></p> <p><strong>1. Taking a Kangaroo Selfie</strong></p> <p>The first selfie you take with a kangaroo will be forever cherished. They’re quite photogenic and probably the nicest and most outgoing Australian-native animals.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Kangaroo-Selife.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2344" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Kangaroo-Selife.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Kangaroo Selife" width="476" height="567" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Kangaroo-Selife.jpg 476w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Kangaroo-Selife-252x300.jpg 252w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px" /></a></p> <p><strong>2. Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge</strong></p> <p>We climbed to the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge during the TEAN orientation and got to see all that the city had to offer. I was able to see three different weddings happening, boats cruising near the Opera House, and remnants from the New Years Eve fireworks celebration on the bridge.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Bridge-Climb.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2345" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Bridge-Climb.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Bridge Climb" width="756" height="464" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Bridge-Climb.jpg 756w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Bridge-Climb-300x184.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 756px) 100vw, 756px" /></a></p> <p><strong>3. Staying in my First Hostel </strong></p> <p>This experience was absolutely life changing. I got the chance to meet people from all over the world and hear the different stories from these individuals. It was humbling and a fantastic social experience.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Hostel.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2359" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Hostel.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Hostel" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Hostel.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Hostel-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>4. Skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef</strong></p> <p>Cairns is a quick flight north of the Gold Coast. It is an excellent destination for activities such as skydiving, bungy jumping and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. I could see the beautiful crystal clear water from the sky.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Skydive.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2343" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Skydive.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Skydive" width="620" height="349" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Skydive.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Skydive-300x169.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>5. Cliff Jumping</strong></p> <p>Springbrook National Park is located in Queensland. It is absolutely beautiful and includes waterfalls, some hiking and natural springs. My friends and I found an awesome (and safe) place to jump from the rocks into the water. I would NEVER have done this at home, so I guess Oz makes you fearless.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Springbrook.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2353" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Springbrook.jpg" alt="Springbrook" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Springbrook.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Springbrook-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>6. Seeing a Professional Surf Competition</strong></p> <p>The Quiksilver Pro is a professional surf contest and was held right on the Gold Coast. It’s just a bus ride away from both Bond and Griffith Uni. I got to see THE Kelly Slater shred it up as well as some amazing female surfers.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/daisy_alexander_19.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2355" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/daisy_alexander_19.jpg" alt="daisy_alexander_19" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/daisy_alexander_19.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/daisy_alexander_19-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>7. Meeting Royalty </strong></p> <p>Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, just so happened to be doing an Australian Tour and stopped in Brisbane. We managed to be in the same spot at the right time. Boy, she really is as beautiful as the pictures make her seem, and a sweetheart at that.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Royalty.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2346" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Royalty.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Royalty" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Royalty.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Royalty-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>8. Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef</strong></p> <p>One of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, there is nothing quite like the Great Barrier Reef. The colors were breathtaking. The fish were beautiful. It was the most calming and serene experiences of my life. A must do in Australia.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Scuba.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2347" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Scuba.jpg" alt="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Scuba.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Scuba-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>9. Camping Overnight on Moreton Island</strong></p> <p>The second largest sand island in the world, Moreton Island is literally only made of sand. There are no roads. You can only drive cars specific cars that can handle the sand. We spent two days camping, hiking, snorkeling a shipwreck, and sand boarding. It was probably my favorite excursion that I went on during my time in Australia.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Moreton-Island.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2352" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Moreton-Island.jpg" alt="Moreton Island" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Moreton-Island.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Moreton-Island-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>10. Making Friends from All Over the World</strong></p> <p>I came home to the US, after my semester, having not only made friends from Australia and the United State, but also people from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and across Europe. I have since continued to talk to these new friends at least once a week to catch up. I now have couches to sleep on all over the world!</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Friends.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2348" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Friends.jpg" alt="Rachel Levin Friends" width="620" height="449" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Friends.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Rachel-Levin-Friends-300x217.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>Rachel Levin is a <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TEAN</a> program alum and <a href="5%20Steps to Recover from your Semester Abroad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Ambassador</a> at The University of Maryland. She studied abroad with TEAN on the <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/goldcoast.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Coast, Australia</a>. </strong></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/">10 Life Changing Moments Studying Abroad in Australia</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/10-life-changing-moments-studying-abroad-in-australia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>How to be a Fish in the Great Barrier Reef</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2014 18:35:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Gold Coast]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cairns]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=1698</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Recently, 15 other TEAN girls and I lived a weekend of the diva life on … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/">How to be a Fish in the Great Barrier Reef</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1702" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/4.jpg" alt="Whitsunday Islands" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/4.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/4-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>Recently, 15 other TEAN girls and I lived a weekend of the diva life on a catamaran in the Great Barrier Reef. Yes, it was as fantastic as it sounds. On board Wings III, we spent our days jet-setting around the Whitsunday Islands with a stop-off on the world’s 3<sup>rd</sup> most beautiful beach – Whitehaven.<span id="more-1698"></span></p> <p>But we weren’t just observers, oh no. We wasted no time jumping right in, becoming one with the Great Barrier Reef. My mind was blown at how truly immersed we were in the reef and its ecosystem; able to see firsthand what it’s like, unnoticed, as if we were a barnacle on a rock (underwater version of ‘fly on the wall’). And I realized that if I ever wanted to become one of these fish, there are only 5 simple steps I would have to follow:</p> <p><strong>1. Be beautiful</strong></p> <p>It probably goes without saying, but the fish in the Great Barrier Reef are incredibly stunning. But not just <i>what pretty colors!</i> kind of stunning. Stunning, like, <i>how is that even possible?</i> stunning. I swear, some of them had electricity pumping through their scales, lighting them up with a fluorescent Christmas tree glow. So you have the first step: take breathes away. Be beautiful.</p> <p><strong>2. Be fearless</strong></p> <p>It doesn’t matter if you’re a big guy, little baby, or anything in between. You should fear next to nothing. This includes humans in their embarrassingly horrifying wet suits with their GoPro’s on a stick in your face (take it as a compliment. Remember: you’re beautiful!) You’re going to come across some pretty crazy things as a Great Barrier Reef fish and it’s important to keep your game face on. If you have trouble doing this, follow the lead of the dude 2 inches long who tried to bite my nose off.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1700" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2.jpg" alt="Great Barrier Reef" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>3. <b>Like other fish</b></p> <p>You will never be alone as a fish in the Great Barrier Reef. Learn to coexist. Your school and the school next to you may be rivals, but chances are you’re about to directly cross paths. Go with the flow! It creates a beautiful, dancing whirlwind of colors, anyway. Hint: swim directly through people, too. It freaks them out and it’s hilarious.</p> <p>4. <b>Have a special talent</b></p> <p>Don’t stress! It’s something you were already born with. Maybe, like the Lionfish, you have mane-like tentacles that can kill a man in 5 minutes with just one touch. Or, less morbidly, you have phenomenal acting talents like the cast of <i>Finding Nemo</i>, which was almost entirely spotted while we were there. Perhaps, still, you’re just really good at living a long time like the Maori Wrasse and sea turtles. They’re huge so you should have no trouble finding friends with that in common. Whatever it may be, if you have something cool to offer you’re on your way to being a fish in the Great Barrier Reef.</p> <figure id="attachment_1701" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1701" style="width: 620px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-1701" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/3.jpg" alt="Maori Wrasse fish" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/3.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/3-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1701" class="wp-caption-text">Maori Wrasse fish</figcaption></figure> <p>5. <b>Live in paradise</b></p> <p>Of course, <i>paradise</i> is subjective. But make no mistakes- this paradise you would have to live in goes unmatched. This underwater haven bursts of color and energy, with the right mix of fear and excitement. If you need some more convincing, there is always the option to take a scuba diving tour which, from firsthand experience, is totally worth any anxiety of being strapped with a 20lb tank, a belt of rocks and sunk to the bottom of the ocean. I’m telling you, it will take your breath away (until you grow your gills.)</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1699" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/1.jpg" alt="Snorkelling" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/1.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/1-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><strong>Kierstin Darragh is a student at the University of Maryland and a TEAN Featured Blogger. Kierstin is currently studying abroad with <a title="TEAN Home" href="https://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank">TEAN</a> on the <a title="TEAN Gold Coast" href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/goldcoast" target="_blank">Gold Coast, Australia</a>.</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/">How to be a Fish in the Great Barrier Reef</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/how-to-be-a-fish-in-the-great-barrier-reef/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Taking on Australia with Mom (aka Mum)</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jul 2013 05:00:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=492</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>I had been counting down the days since my arrival to Australia, and the day … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/">Taking on Australia with Mom (aka Mum)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I had been counting down the days since my arrival to Australia, and the day had finally come. It was the day my ‘mum’ (for the sake of sounding Australian) would take a flight half way across the world to join me in my adventures abroad and I couldn’t have been more excited. In fact, I was so excited that the feeling began to turn to stress. There was so much to show her and so little time! I wanted everything about her experience down under to be perfect. I knew it would be her only time visiting this unique and foreign country, so I wanted to put together an eventful and well-rounded itinerary, yet something that a 50 year-old woman on “vacation” could keep up with. So, here it is…</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-16.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-494" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-16.jpg" alt="Gab and mom in Australia" width="620" height="333" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-16.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-16-300x161.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <h4>Day 1: Let mum sleep</h4> <p>Although it was close to impossible to not attack mum with stories and vegemite tastings, I knew it was important to allow her to rest up before our activities began so she didn’t end up resenting me throughout the entire trip.</p> <h4>Day 2 to 5: Cairns</h4> <p>Let the adventures begin! To suit both of our interests, Cairns in Northern Queensland was the perfect place for our mother daughter weekend excursion. I knew my mom would want to visit a warm and tropical destination during her stay, and I also wanted her to feel like she had traveled this far for a reason. What better way to soak up Australia’s unique surroundings than to visit two world heritage sites in the same location? During our stay, we took a sailboat out to the Great Barrier Reef with a tour group and learned to scuba dive for the first time and hiked through the oldest rainforest habitat in the world, the Daintree Rainforest. In between these tours we were also able to explore Port Douglass and the 4-mile beach, one of the top-ten nicest beaches in Australia; learnt to spear fish in the mangroves with aboriginals; and of course, catch some rays.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-15.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-493" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-15.jpg" alt="Diving the GBR" width="620" height="827" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-15.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-15-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <h4>Day 6: Recover</h4> <p>This also seemed like a good day to go to classes and catch up on some work. Mum may be on vacation, but school still existed for me.</p> <h4>Day 7: Let’s Go Shopping</h4> <p>Having mum around was the perfect time to take advantage of all of the great shops Brisbane has to offer. Not only was I able to get those black Converse sneakers I had been eyeing down in the Universal Store, but mum also bought me some luxury pieces for my wardrobe such as a kangaroo leather bracelet and new sunglasses. Not to mention, the extra space in her luggage home was calling my name.</p> <h4>Day 8: Kangaroos!</h4> <p>It’s a rite of passage for visitors in Australia to put up a picture of themselves with a kangaroo on Facebook for people at home to gawk at. So, we did exactly that. Welcome to Australia, Mum!</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-171.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-495" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-171.jpg" alt="Mom meets a kangaroo" width="620" height="827" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-171.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-171-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <h4>Day 9: Wine and Food Tour of Brisbane</h4> <p>Did you know that Australia is consistently one of the top ten wine producing countries in the world? Coming from an Italian family with a passion for food and wine, it was hard to resist. Together, mum and I learned about pairing different types of wine with food while getting a private tour of the scenic countryside and mountains of Brisbane. I like to think mum is the best cook in the world, and I was right. She even beats the best of Brisbane. Maybe we should have skipped that trip and I could have gotten her to whip up her famous gravy and meatballs in my apartment instead.</p> <p><a href="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-181.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-496" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-181.jpg" alt="Wine tasting" width="620" height="465" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-181.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Image-181-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <h4>Day 10: Saying Goodbye</h4> <p>After countless luxurious meals, long stories and memorable pictures, mum and I came to the end of our journey together. Saying goodbye to her was more difficult than I expected. Although I was going to see her again in only a month’s time, it was ending the experience as a whole that was so hard to come to terms with. In the previous ten days I was able to experience Australia with someone I love by my side, and that was more special than all of my trips this semester put together. Mum left with a great appreciation for the people, the food, the culture and the nature of Australia, and that is all I could have asked for.</p> <p>On the bright side, I was able to enjoy my American goodie bag mum had left behind for me. Heinz ketchup never tasted so good.</p> <p><strong>Gabrielle (Gab) Cerami is a student at the University of Maryland and a TEAN Featured Blogger. Gab is currently studying abroad with <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TEAN</a> in <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/brisbane.html">Brisbane, Australia</a>.</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/">Taking on Australia with Mom (aka Mum)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/taking-on-australia-with-mom-aka-mum/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>A Dream Come True: Diving on the Great Barrier Reef</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2013 01:09:51 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Townsville]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cairns]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=334</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>One of the biggest reasons I chose to study here in Townsville was the easy … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/">A Dream Come True: Diving on the Great Barrier Reef</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the biggest reasons I chose to study here in Townsville was the easy access to the reef. Growing up, I kept a reef aquarium, and I have been fascinated by the reef ever since. Over lecture recess, my lifelong dream of experiencing the largest reef system in the world finally came true. I travelled to Cairns and went out on a 3 day liveaboard trip that was truly incredible. I captured most of my dives with a GoPro, and this video shows a few of the highlights! Enjoy!</p> <p>Editor’s note: Turtle appears at 2:05. Viewing as full screen recommended.</p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/66053121" width="620" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/66053121"><span id="more-334"></span>Great Barrier Reef on a GoPro</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user9180770">PhotoKazyak</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p> <p>You can view more of Eric’s incredible photos and videos on his personal <a title="Eric Kazyak's website" href="http://kazyakphoto.zenfolio.com/" target="_blank">website</a>.</p> <p><strong>Eric Kazyak is a student at the University of Maryland and a TEAN Featured Blogger. Eric is currently studying abroad with <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank">TEAN</a> in <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/nthqld.html">Townsville, Australia</a>.</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/">A Dream Come True: Diving on the Great Barrier Reef</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/diving-on-the-great-barrier-reef/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>A Magnetic Experience: SCUBA certification on beautiful Magnetic Island</title> <link>https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/</link> <comments>https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[TEAN]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 20 Apr 2013 13:01:55 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Townsville]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Great Barrier Reef]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/?p=92</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>SCUBA stands for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, and breathing underwater is awesome, especially here on … <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/">A Magnetic Experience: SCUBA certification on beautiful Magnetic Island</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>SCUBA stands for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, and breathing underwater is awesome, especially here on the Great Barrier Reef. Being so close to the set of Finding Nemo, I couldn’t miss all its majesty, but I didn’t know getting certified would be so cool.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11235" src="http://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ERIC_KAZYAK_2.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="662" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ERIC_KAZYAK_2.jpg 1000w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ERIC_KAZYAK_2-300x199.jpg 300w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ERIC_KAZYAK_2-768x508.jpg 768w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ERIC_KAZYAK_2-310x205.jpg 310w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></p> <p>With a friend who is also studying abroad here, I set out on the 20 minute ferry across to the island on Good Friday, ready for 4 days out there. It was a beautiful day on the water, and we sat up top with the wind blowing, sun shining.</p> <p>After a brief mix-up with my reservation, we were checked into our accommodation. The place was pretty much what you picture when you think of paradise. Palm trees, sandy beach, turquoise water, hammocks, flowers, an open air bar, a pool, you get the picture…not a bad place to be for a couple days of reading and then a couple days of pool skills and dives in the ocean. I opted not to do the bookwork online, and I am glad I did since the setting was so great.</p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4883.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-99" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4883.jpg" alt="20130330-DSC_4883" width="620" height="410" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4883.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4883-300x198.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>In the middle of the first night, I woke up to periodic crashes as things from other people’s bunks in my room fell to the floor. Just as I realized what must be happening, I heard a high-pitched scream from the girl in the next bunk over. An opossum had made its way into the room through an open window. We ushered him out and went to bed. We later found out this wasn’t unusual, as the next night a group of 3 of them made there way in to scare a new group of girls, one of which climbed up onto my bed in fear.</p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4884.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-93" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4884.jpg" alt="20130330-DSC_4884" width="620" height="376" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4884.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130330-DSC_4884-300x182.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>The next day, we had about 2 hours of videos, reading, and instruction before being set free to hang out by the pool, sleep in the hammocks, and relax for the rest of the day…not bad. I really enjoy photography, so my mornings were spent enjoying the wonderful, warm morning light during the incredible sunrises.</p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5025.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-96" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5025.jpg" alt="20130331-DSC_5025" width="620" height="396" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5025.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5025-300x192.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-DSC_5164.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-98" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-DSC_5164.jpg" alt="20130401-DSC_5164" width="620" height="410" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-DSC_5164.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130401-DSC_5164-300x198.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_4937.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-94" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_4937.jpg" alt="20130331-DSC_4937" width="620" height="410" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_4937.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_4937-300x198.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>There were 4 of us in the class, Nathan and I, a girl that just graduated from oxford and a Canadian girl. Our instructor was a British girl who promptly labeled Nathan and I Americans #1 and #2. I was #1, for the record. The book stuff is pretty straight forward, nothing to worry about if you are thinking of taking the course.</p> <p>The second day after some bookwork, we used the gear in the pool. It was cool to breathe under water even just in the pool! We performed a few sets of skills to show that we could react appropriately in case something went wrong. On the third day, we finished the pool skills and got in the ocean for the first time! We saw corals, lots of fish, even a giant clam! Nathan and I went for a hike in the afternoon and overlooked gorgeous Nelly Bay (below). Getting certified here is not only affordable, but it is an all-around great experience that I highly recommend!</p> <p><a href="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5086.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-97" src="http://educationabroadnetwork.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5086.jpg" alt="20130331-DSC_5086" width="620" height="410" srcset="https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5086.jpg 620w, https://teanabroad.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/20130331-DSC_5086-300x198.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>P.S. – This past weekend, I put that certification to use and dove the GBR! I was in awe. I have long dreamed of the moment, and it is a big reason I chose to come here, and it exceeded my expectations!</p> <p><strong>Eric Kazyak is a student at the University of Maryland and a TEAN Featured Blogger. Eric is currently studying abroad with <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TEAN</a> in <a href="http://www.educationabroadnetwork.org/nthqld.html">Townsville, Australia</a>.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/">A Magnetic Experience: SCUBA certification on beautiful Magnetic Island</a> appeared first on <a href="https://teanabroad.org">TEAN</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://teanabroad.org/blog/scuba-certification-magnetic-island/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>